RAWALPINDI: Police are continuing their crackdown on undocumented foreigners, with 5,439 illegal Afghan nationals detained in a holding centre in Rawalpindi.

Additionally, 19 persons have been reported missing from the centre since the government’s deadline of 31 March 2025 to leave Pakistan voluntarily expired.

The police have also intensified crackdown against undocumented immigrants in the federal capital territory, with targets set to arrest illegal Afghan nationals.

Following directives, police have been instructed to focus solely on daily arrests of illegal Afghans, illegal tenants, hotel eye, and travel eye. Strict departmental action will be taken against police officials who fail to record entries.

In Rawalpindi, police have launched a crackdown against violations of the Tenancy Act, arresting 38 individuals, according to police spokespersons.

Actions against those detained were carried out in areas including Naseerabad, Chaklala, Jatli, Sadar Baruni, Rawat, Chontra, Chakri, Kahuta, and Kallar Syedan, he added.

Under orders from CPO Syed Khalid Mahmood Hamdani, there is an ongoing crackdown to enforce the Tenancy Act, with daily search operations.

Citizens are urged to register tenants to maintain law and order and should promptly register tenants and employees at the relevant police station, Police Khidmat Markaz, or via the Punjab Police mobile app.

People are also encouraged to report violations of the Tenancy Act at the nearest police station, with confidentiality assured. Registering tenants without legal grounds can be punishable.

The CPO has issued special instructions regarding service delivery, police conduct, grievance redressal, and improvements within police stations.

These instructions were shared at a meeting attended by SSP Operations, SSP Investigation, Divisional SPs, SDPOs, SHOs, branch in-charges, and headquarters staff.

The CPO stressed that individuals visiting police stations, checkpoints, or service centres should be treated with respect, dignity, and courtesy. Protecting citizens’ dignity, self-respect, and fundamental rights is paramount.

He also directed the police to take complaints seriously and ensure prompt and effective redress. Good behaviour, tolerance, and respectfulness should be the police’s hallmark.

Fostering trust between police and the public relies on civilised and professional conduct.

Violence and unprofessional behaviour will be strictly sanctioned. Professionalism, discipline, and ethical values are core principles of the force.

Delays, negligence, or irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated. The primary police responsibilities include safeguarding citizens and providing excellent service.

Published in Dawn, February 12th, 2026